San Benito Stage Company presents ‘Matilda’

This article was written by BenitoLink intern Kaitlyn Martinez. Lea este artículo en español aquí.

With just days before opening night, the “Matilda” cast looks forward to sharing the family musical with the community. The show is put on by the San Benito Stage Company and is based on the 1988 children’s novel by Roald Dahl.

Director Adrienne Summers and choreographer Rachel Hartman agree that the show has several different elements that will appeal to both kids and adults.

“It’s a great opportunity for parents to take their kids here,” Summers said. “Give them the experience of theater in this kind of environment before taking them to a Broadway show or San Jose Broadway.”

She added it could also be a great way to get kids into reading the book.

Rehearsals began the first week of June and the cast has been working on the show Monday through Friday. The various roles and songs in the production have required lots of practice.

“We’re all trying to put in as much effort as we can to do the show,” said cast member Kendall Wright, who plays the Bulgarian Businessman, “because this is one of the highest efforts that any of our shows have required until this point. We’re all working very, very hard.”

Many members of the production said it’s important for the community to support the arts in San Benito County, as it provides a safe place for all people and an outlet for those who may not find it elsewhere. Increased support for the arts is something that was discussed in BenitoLink’s listening session on the arts.

Derek Barnes II, who choreographed the musical, said he has created a small family within the San Benito Stage Company members.

“It’s incredible how close you get with these people and how close you stay for years,” he said.

Summers also encouraged the audience to share their experience of going to the shows with other people and on social media.

San Benito Stage Company’s production of “Matilda” takes place in the Hollister High School auditorium at the following times:

July 12 at 7 p.m.
July 13 at 7 p.m.
July 19 at 7 p.m.
July 20 at 1 p.m.
July 20 at 7 p.m.
July 26 at 7 p.m.
July 27 at 7 p.m.

Tickets are available at the San Benito Stage Company website.

The BenitoLink Internship Program is a paid, skill-building program that prepares local youth for a professional career. This program is supported by Monterey Peninsula Foundation AT&T Golf Tour, United Way, Taylor Farms and the Emma Bowen Foundation.